2016 Top Black Educators Issue -Legacy Miami

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Miami

"Providing News/Information and Connecting Florida’s Black Affuencers and Infuencers"

Top Black Educators of 2016 Issue Dr. Larry Rice Brings Passion and Experience to the Presidency of Johnson & Wales

Miami Dade County School Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho Stirs District Toward Economic Parity Antonio Coley South Florida President of BBT Bank Returns Home to South Florida Marketing ProTony Wallace Gives his Food for Thought on Education And More...

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

As we prepared the 2016 Top Educators issue, the 2016 elec�on was a looming backdrop. Over and over, references to educated and non-educated voters, and which will control the elec�on, are debated by poli�cal news anchors, reporters and analysts. The vote for who will elect America’s next president is overwhelmingly in favor of educated voters, including Black men and women.

This na�onal poli�cal clout is evidence of the power and impact

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

central tool for growth and success. They exemplify, through their own success, that educa�on provides the most viable access to upward mobility.

Educa�on is a legacy from our ancestors, an anchor to our present standing and condi�on, and a path from which the Black community must never stray. As you review this issue and read about the 2016 Top Educators, let us not forget the words of W. E. B Dubois “Education is that whole system of human training, within and without, the school house walls, which molds and develops men” Here at Legacy, we will con�nue to educate the community about the success and achievements of people of color and the role we play in a larger society.

of educa�on in the Black community.

In this issue, we li� up those leaders in our communi�es who make this educa�on possible. Those who encourage us to keep educa�on as a

All the best, Kervin L. Clenance Group Publisher Legacy South Florida Legacy Miami

It’s Been Great!

"influencers and affluencers" of South Florida's Black community.

I went from being Legacy's project manager to being its editor-in-chief Over the past two years, I've had the pleasure of being a part of MIA and re-launching MIA magazine. And I have gained an insurmountable amount of knowledge of the media industry. This experience has been Media Group. When I moved back challenging and even more so rewarding. to Miami from Thailand, Dexter All good things must come to an end; our 2016 Legacy 40 Under 40 asked that I join the Legacy tempoissue was my last issue. Since then I’ve joined Capital Analy�cs Associates rarily to assist with the "25 Most as the Execu�ve Director of Invest: Miami 2017. I am excited about this Prominent and Influen�al Women new opportunity and hope that you will wish me well. Furthermore, of 2014" issue. please stay tuned as I will be launching Collec�ve Dri�: Celebra�ng InterSince then, I have had the na�onal Women + Culture + Travel on www.collec�vedri�.com within the opportunity to work with Legacy's upcoming year! team including Dexter Bridgeman, I wish MIA Media Group con�nued success as they con�nue to be a Kervin Clenance, Denise St. Patrick Legacy in South Florida.

Bell, Toni Harrigan, Olisa Adger, our It has been my honor and privilege to have you as a reader. writers, photographers, designers, make-up ar�sts and more. The Miami Herald's and the Sun Sen�nel's Erica Knowles Signing off for now! amazing teams have been great to me. I've go�en to work with our Immediate Past Editor-in-Chief Erica wonderful sponsors, adver�sers, and publicists. I've had the chance to Legacy and MIA magazines honor and get to know wonderful people who are the

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS "The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and na�onal antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Ha�ng no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all hurt as long as anyone is held back."

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An independent supplement by MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP, LLC. Dexter A. Bridgman CEO & Founder “Providing News/Informa�on and Connec�on Florida’s Black Affluencers and Influencers” Contact: dab@miamediagrp.com Kervin L. Clenance Group Publisher, Legacy Magazine Denise St. Patrick-Bell PhD Copy Editor Toni Harrigan Intern Md Shahidullah Art Director

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South Florida's Top Black Educators of 2016

I'Tita-Nefartari Alexander

Curriculum Support Specialist & Instruc�onal Coach, Director of Opera�ons & Programming, Co-Founder & Lead ACTivator Miami-Dade County Public Schools, DIBIA Dream, Inc., ACT Na�on, Inc.

Alexandra Davis

Raoul Amstelveen, EdD Professor Johnson & Wales University

Schools

Jade Donaldson

President of CATAF & Computer Technology Teacher Caribbean American Teachers Associa�on of Florida (CATAF)/ Somerset Academy Miramar

Co-founder of United Mentors, LLC, Founder and Coordinator of S.O.A.R., LLC, K-8 ESE Support Facilitator United Mentors, LLC, S.O.A.R., LLC and Broward County Charter School

Thomas Harrison Social Studies Teacher & Head Wrestling Coach Stranahan High School

Michelle Hicks-Levy Execu�ve Director Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Reginald Miller, M.S. Administra�ve Dean Wekiva High School/ Jeaga Middle School

Sarah Ruff 6th - 12th grade music director Arthur and Polly Mays Conservatory of the Arts

Wallace Aris�de Nicole L. Brown M.Ed. Dr. Sacha T. Challenger, Ed.D. Josya-Gony Charles MD, MS Webber J. Charles Assistant Professor, Family Medicine Senior Site Director, Breakthrough Assistant Principal Principal Middle School Reading Florida Interna�onal University North Miami Beach Senior High Miami Ransom Everglades School Miami Northwestern Senior Teacher Herbert Wertheim College of Breakthrough Miami Medicine High School Deerfield Beach Middle School School -Miami Dade County Public

Orkisha Edmond, M.Ed District Literacy Coach Florida Virtual School

David Edwards

Associate Professor & Lead Faculty Sports, Entertainment & Event Management Johnson & Wales University

Dr. Tameka Bradley Hobbs,

Belinda Hope Principal Pine Ridge Educa�on Center

Angela L. Mumford President A.L.M Elite Enterprises, Inc.

Norman Munroe, Eng.Sc.D. Professor & Director, Office of Student Access and Success College of Engineering & Compu�ng, FIU

Richard Ruffin, EdD

Ebony Whisenant, MD

3rd Grade Teacher, Adult Educa�on ESL Instructor & Director Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary, Miami Dade College & Marlon Eason Jr. Violence Awareness and Preven�on Founda�on

Course Director, Community Engaged Physician Florida Interna�onal University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Marie Florent-Carre

NSU assistant professor of Family Medicine and Public Health and Director of the Department of Rural and Urban Underserved Medicine at NSU's College of Osteopathic Medicine Nova Southeastern University (NSU)

Principal Robert Morgan Educa�onal Center/Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Teacher of Reading & English. Campus Life Sponsor, Ambassador Mentorship Program Director Royal Palm Beach Higj School

Derrick Gilbert

Brenda Gillis Senior Director of Administra�on Seminole Tribe of Florida

Associate Dean of Opera�ons and Enrollment Management and Assitant Professor of Informa�on Technology Barry University

Associate Professor, Public Administra�on/Law and Government degree program Florida Memorial University

Excep�onal Student Educa�on Specialist & Youth Development Program Facilitator Olsen Middle School

Shaundas Knighton, M.Ed

Camelon Lamb- Pope Principal/Director Regina T. Lamb Athle�cs & Arts Academy

Carolyn Nesbi� Founding President/CEO CONCERNED AFRICAN WOMEN, INC.

Valerie L. Pa�erson, PhD Clinical Associate Professor, Public Administra�on Florida Interna�onal University

Estella Pyfrom Educator Estella's Brilliant Bus

Heather D. Russell Professor and Chairperson of the English Department Florida Interna�onal University

Craig K. Skilling Professor, Sports, Entertainment & Event Management Johnson & Wales University

9th-12th Grade Crea�ve Teacher/ 2017 MDCPS Teacher of the Year Miami Norland Senior High School/ Miami-Dade Public Schools

Precious Symone�e

Dr. ANGELA E. THOMAS-DUPREE PRINCIPAL D. A. DORSEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Dr.Chanadra Young Whi�ng,

Veronica J. Williams, ED. S. Assistant Principal Miami Jackson Sr. High School

Kyla Williams, PhD Mathema�cs Professor Broward College

Ph.D. Interim Chair, Department of Social Sciences, Assistant Professor of History Florida Memorial University

Ed.D, MPH, Clinical Assistant Professor ,Department of Health Services Administra�on Florida Interna�onal University /Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Olivia Jackson, PhD

Reginald J. Fox

Peter Clarke Associate Professor Florida Interna�onal University

Mr. Paul V. Wilson

Administra�ve Director, School Opera�ons Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Karlene Cousins, J.D./PhD

Associate Professor, Faculty Director MS IS Program & Director ATOM Think Tank, Florida Interna�onal University

Yhovana Gordon, EdD, DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC

Chair, Graduate Nursing - Advanced Prac�ce Nursing Programs; Director, Doctor of Nursing Prac�ce Program; Clinical Asst Professor Florida Interna�onal University

Pamela Lucke�, PhD

Bridget McKinney, M.S. ED School Administrator-Principal Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Andrea Queeley, PhD Associate Professor Florida Interna�onal University

Norris Redding Adjucnt Professor Union Ins�tute & University

Rosheika Y. H. Rolle Magnet Coordinator Lauderdale Lakes IB World School

Tsitsi Wakhisi Associate Professor, professional prac�ce, University of Miami

Tony Wallace VP, Marke�ng and Admissions Florida Technical College

La-Shanda West, Ed.M. Social Studies Department Chair and iPrep Academy Leader Cutler Bay Senior High

Dr. Ron Winston Vernicca Beard Wynter, M.Ed. Professor Intern Principal Miami Dade College Medical William Dandy Middle School Campus

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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CHAIRMAN’S REPORT By: Chairman Jean Mones�me

Chairman Jean Mones�me, District 2 Miami Dade County Board of County Commissioners Educa�on is a subject that has always been close to my heart. Before joining the County Commission, I worked as a school teacher in the Miami-Dade County Public School System and as an adjunct professor of management at the South Florida campus

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Educa�on is the Key to Success

of the University of Phoenix. I have also served on various school advisory boards, because I am passionate about educa�on and know that knowledge is the most important tool for success. This is especially true for individuals from less-privileged backgrounds. Combined with determina�on, self-discipline and hard work, a good educa�on can overcome economic barriers and li� young people out of poverty and help them achieve a be�er and brighter future for themselves, their families and their communi�es.

As Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission, my top priority has been to close the persistent income inequality gap in our county to bring economic prosperity to those segments of the community that have not enjoyed the fruits of economic growth, and educa�on is a major piece of that puzzle. Although the County Commission does not have jurisdic�on over the county’s schools, which are run by the Miami-Dade School Board, there is much we have done and can do to promote and advance the educa�on of our youth, not only through

County-run programs but also through innova�ve partnerships with the School Board, academic ins�tu�ons and community organiza�ons.

The County offers a variety of educa�onal summer camps and funds a summer youth internship program to provide addi�onal educa�onal experience and training opportuni�es to Miami-Dade youth. Under my Chairmanship, I’m also proud that the County has expanded library hours to keep children out of trouble and engaged in learning a�er school. The County also has established innova�ve and exci�ng partnerships with the School Board to create industry-focused magnet schools and joint-use agreements to allow schools to use County-owned proper�es such as Zoo Miami for educa�onal programs. We have also been working with Florida Interna�onal University, the Florida Board of Governors, and the Florida Legislature to create South Florida’s first veterinary school.

Educa�on was a major topic of discussion at the One Heritage: State of Black Miami community forum that I helped host in April

at Florida Memorial University. The purpose of the forum was to develop a collec�ve ac�on-oriented agenda to address the needs of the black community, including black youth. Par�cipants, including a panel of experts from a variety of fields, formulated a broad set of ac�on items based on the discussions that took place. On the educa�on side, these recommenda�ons include crea�ng organiza�ons to help parents work with the school system to iden�fy the tools that their children need to succeed, addressing the lack of voca�onal training and elec�ves at certain schools, improving bi-literacy, developing a “quality of life” curriculum, and making more informa�on about scholarships, career paths and secondary educa�on available in schools.

Educa�on is the key to success in life, and I look forward to con�nue working with my Commission colleagues, our community partners and the public to ensure that every young person receives the high-quality educa�on they need to achieve their dreams.

CITY OF MIAMI CHAIRMAN’S REPORT By: Chairman Keon Hardemon

Chairman Keon Hardemon, Miami City Commission Gentrifica�on is a process of renova�on and revival of deteriorated urban neighborhoods by means of influx of more affluent residents, which results in increased property values and the displacing of lower-income families and small businesses.

Gentrifica�on has caused hysteria amongst our most vulnerable communi�es. It has also occurred repeatedly in the City of Miami. For example, Lemon City, an early

We Can Help You Combat Gentrifica�on

se�lement that predated the incorpora�on of the City of Miami, was once a white community that eventually was replaced by Bahamian and African-Americans. Anxiety overwhelmed the residents when Hai�ans next moved into the area in masses. The Hai�an presence soon became the community’s dominant cultural presence.

The Hai�an assimila�on signaled another gentrifica�on of the area. The community became affec�onately known as Li�le Hai� and today is seeing another wave of gentrifica�on as property owners are selling their proper�es.

Along the commercial corridors of Li�le Hai�, investors have purchased proper�es that have been tradi�onally rented by Hai�an business owners. Many investors then increased the rent to rates that are unaffordable to the current Hai�an business owners or terminated the leases at the earliest convenience of the new investor.

Tradi�onal Hai�an businesses are now being replaced with a variety of other businesses that many in the community believe to be aimed at erasing the community’s iden�ty.

Thankfully, organiza�ons like City of Miami and the Northeast Second Avenue

Partnership, a racially diverse organiza�on, have assisted in preserving the cultural iden�ty of the business corridors of Li�le Hai�.

The effects of gentrifica�on are increasingly obvious in the neighborhoods that abut the commercial corridors of neighborhoods like Li�le Hai�, Overtown, and Coconut Grove. As the commercial corridors become more profitable investors have begun to purchase nearby proper�es from homeowners in the tradi�onally homogenous neighborhoods. Those who sell their homes in these historically significant neighborhoods then move elsewhere and the new tenants introduce racial diversity to the community. Diversity isn’t terrible for any community. A�er all, Miami is one of the most diverse ci�es in America. However, diversity isn’t what residents are complaining of. Residents are complaining that they are being completely uprooted from their communi�es against their wishes.

Understanding these concerns, the City of Miami, Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), and my office have implemented several meaningful ini�a�ves to combat

gentrifica�on. First, families who own property in these areas should not sell their proper�es because they are in need of major repairs in which they can’t afford.

The City of Miami offers rehabilita�ons to residen�al proper�es at no cost to homeowners. Second, the CRA has provided grants in excess of twenty-five million dollars to rehabilitate homeowners’ proper�es in the Overtown community to encourage them to remain property owners in the area in the face of investors who wish to acquire their proper�es in an�cipa�on of the property value boon in the area. Such ini�a�ves restore pride in homeownership in communi�es where homes have suffered neglect. Finally, for those that are renters and are at the greatest risk of displacement, we have provided hundred of units of affordable housing with more that are immediately scheduled for groundbreakings and ribbon cu�ngs. I take my responsibility to protect all of our neighborhoods seriously and will con�nue to find innova�ve ways to combat gentrifica�on in our most vulnerable communi�es. Thus, I urge residents to take full advantage of the aforemen�oned ini�a�ves.

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INSPIRING TOMORROW’S LEADERS The University of Miami joins Legacy magazine in saluting all the 2016 Top Black Educators in South Florida, including two distinguished members of our faculty: Osamudia James, vice dean and professor in the School of Law, and Tsitsi Wakhisi, associate professor in the School of Communication.

Education is one of the most essential keys to the vitality of our region, and for more than 90 years the University of Miami has been proud to serve our community and its citizens. As one of the nation’s top-tier research universities, we are committed to transforming lives through teaching, research, medical care, and service. miami.edu

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By Zach Rinkins

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho S�rs District Towards Economic Parity

Superintendent Carvalho with Students Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) is the na�on's fourth-largest school system and serves nearly 350,000 students, 40,000 employees, and 392 schools. Also known as the district, M-DCPS is the second largest government in Miami-Dade County and operates a roughly $5 billion annual budget. Great resources combined with historical indifference towards minority communi�es, plus a scarcity of minority vendor contract par�cipa�on; has yielded frustra�on among some members of Miami’s Black community. As their children contend with a globalized economy, more compe��ve workforce, and the steadily rising costs of living in Miami, some parents worry their kids may be worse off than they are or were.

M-DCPS Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho says he's aware of those concerns and has re-engineered the district to respond with effec�ve solu�ons.

“We understand the historical challenges faced by the minority community in Miami-Dade and across the country,” affirms Carvalho, winner of the 2016 Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Educa�on. “We took that into account and decided to aggressively create change and transforma�on that leads to the availability of resources and programs to the community.”

Those programs and resources are a part of the chief’s mul�-year, mul�-phased, comprehensive approach aimed at expanding educa�onal op�ons for children (K – 12) and adults. He says M-DCPS offers a diverse menu of rigorous school op�ons (www.YourChoicemiami.org), a network of parent resources (www.TheParentAcademy.

DadeSchools.net), and prepares students to compete in the modern workforce.

“We have drama�cally expanded choice within the inner city community,” shares Carvalho, whose results garnered a College Board Advanced Placement Equity and Excellence District of the Year. “Our curriculum is totally driven by the economic

demands and future of this community. We have collaborated with CareerSource Florida, the Beacon Council, and many public-private partnerships to ensure that we have created a new reality of career-readiness throughout the district.”

Through its affordable adult and technical educa�on programs (www.AdultEd.DadeSchools.net), the district helps underemployed and unemployed adults gain marketable skills.

“In addi�on to our children, we teach 150,000 adults in our technical colleges.

These programs guarantee a career in a year that pays handsome salaries to individuals that started with low skills,” he offers.

Since its founding, Blacks comprise roughly 25-percent of the district student popula�on. From 1986 to 2009, Black contractors have reportedly earned less than two-percent ($107.7 million) of the $7.5 billion in total procurement expenditures and less than eight-percent ($546 million) of the $7 billion construc�on and design spend. Carvalho says he understands the pain and needed to create a legal framework to unclog the systemic discriminatory prac�ces.

“A�er star�ng my job, the economic dispari�es among the minority community

were one of the harshest data points I was confronted with,” he recalls. “A�er over 30 years of no ac�on, I commissioned a study first focused on dispari�es in construc�on investments.”

Before the study, M-DCPS school board had no legal authority to create race or gender-based contrac�ng mandates. The results were cri�cal to crea�ng an ac�onable legal framework.

“The board has made sweeping legisla�on that provides race and gender-based goals associated with procurement,” he notes.

He also created the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) (OEO.DadeSchools.net), aimed at empowering, serving, and cer�fying business. Since July 31, 756 minority or women-owned firms have cer�fied. He says contracts awarded to Black-owned firms have increased by, "double-digits.”

The superintendent admits there is s�ll room for improvement. He promises to implement other studies and use the data to encourage the board to create legisla�ve mandates that create economic parity for all.

You can communicate with the superintendent at Twitter.com/MiamiSup

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CALL NOW 305.558.8000 OR VISIT WWW.CAREERINAYEAR.COM Anti-Discrimination/Harassment (Students) – Board Policy 5517 and 5517.02 M-DCPS does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, marital status, disability, age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, gender identification, social and family background, linguistic preference, pregnancy, or any other basis prohibited by law in its educational programs, services or activities or in its hiring or employment practices. Please refer to School Board Policies 5517 - Anti-Discrimination/Harassment (Students) and 5517.02 - Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedures for Students for more information. Questions, complaints or requests for additional information regarding discrimination or harassment may be sent to: Executive Director, Civil Rights Compliance Office, 155 NE 15 Street, Suite P-104E, Miami, Florida 33132; PH:305-995-1580 or e-mail address: crc@dadeschools.net. The District also provides equal access to its facilities to the Boy Scouts and other patriotic youth groups, as required by the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act.

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We’re Barry Proud

Congratulations!

Dr. Pamela Luckett Top Black Educator Award – 2016

We congratulate Dr. Pamela Luckett on being recognized as a Top Black Educator in 2016, and are immensely honored she is part of Barry’s faculty. Since 1940 we’ve made it our mission to provide every single one of our students with the kind of transformational education that helps them become who they were meant to be — and empowering them to make our world a better place, while achieving greatness. Thank you, Dr. Luckett, for believing in our mission while helping us reach our goals on campus and in the community. | barry.edu Follow us

Achieving Greatness | Since 1940

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Johnson & Wales' Rice Brings Passion and Experience to Presidency

By: Isheka N. Harrison

Dr. Larry Rice Dr. Larry Rice is the first black president in the history of Johnson and Wales University (JWU) and it’s an honor he’s more than qualified to have. The veteran educator brings more than 20 years of experience to the role – having held posi�ons ranging from faculty member and dean to interim president at the North Miami Campus. Now as the official commander-in-chief, Rice is on a mission to

ensure those under his leadership have an educa�onal experience they will never forget.

“I see Johnson & Wales as an incredible ins�tu�on and when I think of the level of responsibility that has been placed in my hands I don’t take it lightly,” Rice said.

Known for its experien�al educa�on model, JWU has a range of programs in culinary arts, business, hospitality and arts and sciences. It is home to over 1,700 students and almost 250 faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds – and Rice wants them all to thrive.

“I want to create an environment where there is caring, sharing, interac�ng and valuing the role of each role player. It’s not just about how employees interact with students, but how they interact with each other,” Rice said.

His philosophy on educa�on includes addressing student needs, enhancing the student experience, promo�ng high order thinking and having faculty and staff be as warm and welcoming to each other as they are to students.

“The bea�ng heart of an ins�tu�on is the

people. It’s not the brick & mortar. A strength of our campus has been its warmth, people feeling included and a heightened level of authen�c friendliness,” Rice said To maintain a student-centered learning environment that blends theory with prac�ce, JWU launched two new bachelor degree programs in Interna�onal Business and Entrepreneurship. Classes will be taught by industry professionals and students will study abroad and build businesses from concept to frui�on, respec�vely.

Rice said student and industry demand, market satura�on, employability and bureau of labor sta�s�cs are considered when adding new programs. He is commi�ed to innova�on, engagement and ensuring students master essen�al learning competencies.

His biggest challenge: finding ways to retain students who leave school due to life’s obstacles. As a JWU alum who was the first in his family to a�end college, Rice fully understands these students’ plights.

“I have not personally met a student who comes to campus desiring to fail. Whether affordability, family challenges or industry

changes, there is always a reason why a student decides to leave,” Rice explained.

To address these issues, Rice was instrumental in crea�ng more support for students. In addi�on to awarding over $22 million dollars in student aid, JWU offers 1Gen and Talent Advancement Programs to ease the transi�on of first genera�on college students and pair vulnerable students with faculty mentors to equip them with tools to avoid pi�alls and be successful.

The campus plans to add more programs designed to enhance the curriculum during its 25th anniversary year in 2017. Un�l then, Rice con�nues working to inspire everyone at his campus.

“No one person can accomplish greatness. It’s really a team effort. I want to create and sustain an environment where people truly love working here because students are going to feel that and love being here too,” Rice said. “In four years, magic occurs. Students transform right before our eyes. It’s an honor for us to be par�cipants in wri�ng one of the most meaningful chapters in their lives. I want that to be a great chapter.”

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PINNACLE

By: Zach Rinkins

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Former UM Linebacker Named BBT Bank Florida President

Antonio Coley From 1992 through 1997, Antonio “Tony” Coley was a member of the University of Miami linebacker core once known for terrifying Division I offenses. As president of BBT South Florida, the Miami Gardens-na�ve traded the locker room for the execu�ve suite. He has not, however, forfeited his compe��ve spirit.

“I saw how coaches mo�vated people to perform and held them accountable. I also saw how we had fun when we were

EXECUTIVE SUITE By: Richard McCulloch

successful,” Coley shares. “I use that playbook. I see myself as a coach. I work hard running the play and crea�ng an environment for my team to succeed.”

A�er gradua�ng from UM, Coley started a progressive banking career that included two years at SunTrust Bank, eight years with Wells Fargo banking en��es, more than two years leading Colonial Bank’s commercial business, and over seven years with his current employer, BB&T Bank. He spent most of his career serving South Florida’s business banking clients, except for a two-year s�nt in Sarasota. Unlimited growth opportuni�es a�racted him to banking.

“Banking is an industry where you can be as successful as you want to be. I encourage people of color to consider jobs in this industry,” he offers.

During his nearly two-decade career, Coley developed a reputa�on for intercep�ng low-performing environments and transforming them into marquee areas.

The former Academic All-Star a�ributes his team’s success to ten principles he calls the 10 P’s, featuring quali�es from performance to passion.

“You have to surround yourself with the right people and you have to make sure you

are networking and prospec�ng so you can grow your business,” he reveals. “It is important to have a posi�ve a�tude if you want to perform at a high level. I also hold my leadership team accountable for having posi�ve interac�ons with clients and employees.”

Coley emphasizes, “Processes are cri�cal.

Every successful team that I have seen has consistent processes that they execute regularly.”

Tips to make your business a�rac�ve to banks The Miami-na�ve addressed one of the biggest challenges facing Black-owned business: lack of access to capital.

“People must understand that we, as banks are not investors,” Coley asserts. “We are financiers.”

He explains the difference: “An investor invests in an idea. A financier finances a business that is already running. Banks finance your next acquisi�on or help you buy a piece of equipment for an already proven idea.”

Coley con�nues, “Investors own a piece of your company and par�cipate in the upside of your business. As bankers, we don’t have equity. We only rent you the

money at an interest rate.”

The long�me bank execu�ve offers these �ps to make your business bankable.

Develop a Track Record: “History is the best predictor of future results. Banks seldom finance ideas. If you have been successful for two years, then we have something to build on and possibly finance.

But, you must demonstrate an ability to perform.”

Record Business Developments: “Handle your business. Track your finances, income statements, and progress. Now, you are bankable.”

Maximize Credit: “Unfortunately some of us have not managed our credit properly. If you have poor credit it is much harder to get over that hump.”

Develop Banking Rela�onships “Bankers are people just like everybody else. We want to help people and lend money a�er you meet certain requirements. I like to help people get to the next step. So, if you don’t meet the requirements, find out what you can do to get there. Then, keep in touch and try again as you progress.”

For more information, www.BBT.com.

Tony Wallace: Food for Thought on Educa�on

Growing up in the Bronx, NY can either break you or make you. The Tony Wallace story shows that the difference between vic�miza�on and victory is all about drive and a work Tony Wallace ethic founded on the concept: “Success is the only op�on.”

Born and raised in a bicultural household which blended Jamaican and Puerto Rican heritages, Wallace’s earliest influences were his Catholic faith and educa�on. The authority and discipline offered in church and school were supplemented by a loving and hands-on grandmother who required excellence and ambi�on from all genera�ons that succeeded her. As Wallace fondly remembers; “You never wanted to be the one at our dinner table that was not achieving something in your life.” These standards and expecta�ons were nurtured by his ac�ve involvement in the Boy Scouts;

and their mo�o “Be Prepared” served as a compass to navigate the unpredictability that life o�en presents.

Life’s unpredictability brought Tony and his family to St. Augus�ne, Florida in 1972.

As his father began to cra� a career in foodservice and hospitality, the younger Wallace got involved as well. The introduc�on to Culinary Arts prompted Wallace to head further south to Miami, and eventually serve as an execu�ve chef and part owner of a restaurant in South Beach.

The seasonality of tourism and compe��on forced Wallace to seek a supplemental living. When a friend solicited his help in student recruitment for a Cosmetology-based voca�onal school, Wallace discovered that he had a gi� for mo�va�ng students and immediately saw the value in voca�onal educa�on and skills training.

“Years ago, the government sponsored more technical schools. High School programs featured lots of trades” observes Wallace. Trade and skills training filled a workforce gap in the country. As Wallace points out “Not everyone is suited for a four year college.” This educa�on reality

helped focus his career as a student recruitment and admissions specialist for career-focused postsecondary educa�on ins�tu�ons around the country.

As his career in educa�on evolved, so did his a�en�on to the importance of connec�ng educa�on programs to career paths. With career op�ons changing with the frequency of advancing technology, Wallace worked with ins�tu�ons to ensure that they were mee�ng the needs that prepared students for viable employment opportuni�es. “We needed to focus on programs that met labor demand” according to Wallace. It would not be long before Florida Technical College recognized his exper�se and brought him back to the state that had become his second home.

As the Vice President of Marke�ng and Admissions for Florida Technical College, Wallace has leveraged his experience and passion for educa�on to provide oversight for the student recruitment efforts at the six Florida campuses, including loca�ons in Cutler Bay and Pembroke Pines. Back in the Sunshine State, Wallace has spent much of his �me evalua�ng the needs of today’s college students and guidance is at the top

of his list.

No�ng the diminished involvement of parents in primary and secondary educa�on, Wallace offers this; “Young people, especially in minority communi�es need mentors.” These are not just words to Wallace, but an impera�ve that he prac�ces as the proprietor of the Wallace Grill in Clermont, Florida and Gavioto, his new restaurant opening in downtown Orlando.

Maintaining balance between his leadership role at Florida Technical College and running a successful restaurant requires that he rely on people. “I have managers that never managed before but they had people skills and I was able to teach them the business skills. You spot talent and mentor that talent.”

From Educa�on to Entrepreneurship, Tony Wallace has leveraged his past to forge a present that balances two careers, while offering opportuni�es to success-driven individuals focused on building a future in which they are prepared to do more in an effort to become more.

Richard McCulloch is the VP of Client Services at Tribeca Marketing Group and former Higher Education administrator.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

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BB11

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BUSINESS REPORT By: Beatrice Louissaint

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

What Does It Take to be a Successful Entrepreneur?

People, Partnerships, Performance and Profits

Beatrice Louissaint Having worked in economic development and with minority entrepreneurs for over 20 years, I have gained tremendous respect for business owners. They are the risk takers, innovators and job creators. Every day, I see firsthand the vital role that minority businesses play in shaping our economy.

The most successful business owners focus on four core areas: people, partnerships, performance and profits.

People – Smart business owners hire the right people who can help them achieve their business goals. They know

ARBITRATION & MEDIATION By: Stanley Zamor

Stanley Zamor,Florida Supreme Court Cer�fied Civil/Family/County Mediator /Trainer & Qualified Arbitrator I was contacted by an individual who wanted to know how to pursue a claim against her former a�orney. She stated, “Last year I hired an a�orney to assist me with a sensi�ve business financial ma�er.

We were in constant contact before I executed the retainer/fee agreement; and I paid a he�y retainer that would

that without an efficient, effec�ve and hardworking team they cannot achieve their entrepreneurial dreams and grow a great business.

Partnerships – Partnerships are key to business success, whether they are with suppliers, bankers, business service providers, joint venture associates or strategic alliance partners. Partnerships allow companies to draw on exper�se they may not have – or need – in-house. A company can maximize its investment into its core competencies, while drawing on the best of other’s experience and exper�se. And, small businesses that grow exponen�ally are able to draw from the right partnerships in order to bid on and win larger projects.

Performance – Well-run companies review their performance and evaluate how well they are mee�ng their clients’ needs.

Also, they have a plan for growth and a strategy for long-term sustainability in the marketplace. When it makes sense, they invest in tools to improve that performance, and they con�nue to research what clients need and how the market may change.

Profits – Companies measure success by

profitability. They have a clear, up-to-date, picture of pricing, expenses and sales – all of which are important factors in determining profitability. There is no greater measure of a company’s success than profits and its ability to con�nue to gain market share. A company that is not profitable is not sustainable.

For a business owner to be successful, he or she must never stop learning and adapting. Successful entrepreneurs review their strategy at each stage of development and, when necessary, iden�fy the right advisors to help them map out their business growth.

Are you a minority business owner looking to improve your people, partnerships, performance and profits?

Make an appointment with the Miami MBDA Center to get access to capital, technical exper�se, advanced business consul�ng resources and innova�ve management services. October 3–7, the Center will celebrate Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week by hos�ng a series of workshops to help companies grow. To learn more about the services of the Miami MBDA Business Center, to a�end MED Week or to schedule an

“A�orney Fee Arbitra�ons: From Trusted Counsel to Lawyer-Client Fee Adversaries” automa�cally replenish monthly. But a�er the case was filed in court, I could not get a return phone call. I felt abandoned. I was only contacted, or assisted in court by paralegals, associates or hired “coverage a�orneys”. This went on for 6 to 8 months.

When the lack of contact and a�en�on triggered a series of nega�ve hearings, I fired her and hired another a�orney. Now that my case is over, I want to recoup my ini�al retainer and the tens of thousands of dollars paid to my first a�orney. What are my op�ons?”

Not being sa�sfied with an a�orney’s service is a common complaint and there are various op�ons. I inquired if she sought the advice of an a�orney so they can evaluate her damages and legal remedies.

She refused; and stated that she does not trust a�orneys and contacted me for op�ons and alterna�ves. In response I told her a few of many op�ons are 1) file a case and li�gate, 2) private media�on, 3) contact the bar and if the other party agrees, apply to the Florida Bar Fee Arbitra�on Program.

The following are highlighted excerpts from

the “Consumer Guide to the Legal Fee Arbitra�on Program” (contact the Florida Bar for the complete consumer guide): What is the Florida Bar Fee Arbitra�on Program?

On April 6, 1989, in an effort to encourage the amicable resolu�on of growing lawyer-client fee disputes, The Florida Bar established a statewide fee arbitra�on program. The sole purpose of the arbitra�on program is to decide the fair and reasonable fees charged by an a�orney.

Par�cipa�on in the program is voluntary.

Consent by both par�es is required in order to par�cipate in the fee arbitra�on program.

How Does Binding Fee Arbitra�on Work?

Binding arbitra�on means that the involved par�es agree to accept the decision of the arbitrators who follow specific rules that are less restric�ve than the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure. And depending on certain factors including the amount in controversy, the arbitra�on hearing will be either heard by a panel of three appointed arbiters or a single arbiter (contact the Florida Bar for specifics about the process).

appointment with a business consultant, visit www.mbdamiamicenter.com or call (305) 751-2907.

Beatrice Louissaint is president and CEO of the Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC). The organization is the operator of the U.S. Department of Commerce Miami Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center, which serves southern Florida. FSMSDC’s goal is to increase purchasing from minority businesses by government entities and corporations, while increasing minority business’s operating capacity through hands-on business assistance, training and access to technology and capital resources. Founded in 1975 in southern Florida (formerly named the Southern Florida Minority Supplier Development Council – SFMSDC) and expanded to cover all of Florida in January 2016, FSMSDC is one of 23 regional councils affiliated with the National Minority Supplier Development Council. The FSMSDC acts as a liaison between corporate America and Minority Business Enterprises in the state of Florida.

To learn more about the FSMSDC, visit fsmsdc.org or call (305) 762-6151.

The arbitrator(s) will hear tes�mony from both sides and take evidence from which they will make a decision and issue an award. The only ques�on the arbitrator(s) will address is the “fair and reasonable value” of the lawyer’s services. Complaints about an a�orney’s conduct or possible ethical viola�ons should be filed through The Florida Bar’s Lawyer Regula�on Department.

Is Retaining an A�orney for the Hearing Necessary?

No. The goal and purpose of this arbitra�on forum is to resolve legal fee disputes quickly and inexpensively without having to hire an a�orney.

If you have any questions, please contact the Florida Bar Fee Arbitration Program administrator at (850) 561-5719.

Stanley Zamor is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Civil/Family/County Mediator/ Trainer & Qualified Arbitrator. szamor@i-mediateconsulting.com www.i-mediateconsulting.com (954) 261-8600

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD

Better Leaders. Better World.

Congratulates Bridget McKinney District Administrator, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Alumna, FIU Center for Leadership Principals Leadership Development Program, Class of 2015

2016 Top Black

Educator

The Center for Leadership at Florida International University congratulates Ms. Bridget McKinney on being named among Legacy Magazine’s Top Black Educator for 2016. Ms. McKinney is an alumna of The Center’s Principals Leadership Development Program and an outstanding champion for young people in our community.

With and through her, The Center continues to equip Better Leaders for a Better World.

for

Executive Leadership Development

by Leadership Excellence and HR.com

lead.fiu.edu

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SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT By: Gary T. Har�ield

Business Outreach and Educa�on (BOE) is a Unit within Miami-Dade County’s Small Business Development, a Division of the Internal Gary T. Har�ield, Director Services Miami-Dade County Department.

Small Business Development At the core of its charted acďż˝viďż˝es is that of conducďż˝ng and collaboraďż˝ng outreach events, for the purpose of recruiďż˝ng and preparing small businesses for cerďż˝ďŹ caďż˝on in one or more of the four small business programs the Division administers. Addiďż˝onally, and equally important is that of providing training and educaďż˝on for ďŹ rms once they are cerďż˝ďŹ ed. These eorts are uďż˝lized as a means of adding value to their growth and

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Adding Value to Small Business

development of small businesses and is aďż˝ained through a number of acďż˝viďż˝es and iniďż˝aďż˝ves. BOE, in partnership with industry experts, conducts monthly forums on various topics, consistent with the needs of a small business. Over the years these forums have covered areas including, but not limited to: Joint Venture, Social Media Markeďż˝ng, Understanding Construcďż˝on Contract Language, How To Avoid Contract Liens, and The Essenďż˝als of Having a Business Plan, just to list a few. BOE has also collaborated on events geared to educaďż˝ng the public at large on “How to Do Business with the Countyâ€?; using these mediums to enlighten and inform the public on the steps and processes that are required to ensure noďż˝ďŹ caďż˝on of contracďż˝ng opportuniďż˝es consistent with the services they provide; and, how to proceed with pursuing these contract opportuniďż˝es. BOE also focuses on training and development geared towards understanding and implemenďż˝ng the technical requirements essenďż˝al to successfully compleďż˝ng A&E, construcďż˝on, Design-Builds, goods and services contracts.

Topics include Planning and Scheduling, Cost

s. r e n rs. g i s De uilde .

B ors Give your d n Small Business a Ve Big Boost

Esďż˝maďż˝ng, and Mobilizaďż˝on, just to name a few. BOE also conducts training and development, speciďŹ c to the needs of small businesses providing deďŹ ned scopes of services, for related industry and/or state requirements, in areas such as security, janitorial, and grounds maintenance scopes of services. As experts in idenďż˝fying opportuniďż˝es for small businesses in the areas of architectural, engineering, construcďż˝on, goods and services, for Miami-Dade County and any Public Private Partnerships, BOE have served as subject maďż˝er panel members for the Annual Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Educaďż˝on Program; The District 8 Business Academy Series, and the Going Global Workshop Series, hosted by Miami-Dade County’s Economic Development and Internaďż˝onal Trade Division.

Through “One on Oneâ€? Needs Assessment Meeďż˝ngs, BOE provides training and development, based on a SWOT Analysis of the small business enterprise ďŹ rm. Through a training and development format, a more personalized tailor-made experience is provided; allowing a team of

professional Technical Assistance Coordinators to explore the ďŹ rms’ areas of strength and to discuss how to leverage those areas; to determine the areas of weaknesses and to idenďż˝fy avenues of overcoming those challenges; and then to look at where the opportuniďż˝es exist and to then strategize on how to compete for them. Finally, we explore how to be cognizant of what the threats to a ďŹ rm’s success are, and how to miďż˝gate them.

In the end, Small Business Development realizes small businesses have been the engines of economic growth, in America, crea�ng two-thirds of net new jobs*.

Con�nuous ongoing training and development must be the catalyst for all small businesses to con�nue to eec�vely compete for opportuni�es. In addi�on, small businesses must be savvy, informed, and stay relevant to the ever evolving and dynamic demands of the market place. To this end, we say to all small businesses: Don’t limit your challenges; challenge your limits! *Small Business Administra�on, www.sba.gov/advo/stats/sbfaq.pdf

$GEQOG 5OCNN $WUKPGUU 'PVGTRTKUG %GTVKĹż GF /KNNKQPU KP EQPVTCEVU CTG CYCTFGF GCEJ [GCT VQ Ĺż TOU GPTQNNGF KP /KCOK &CFG %QWPV[Ĺ?U 5OCNN $WUKPGUU 'PVGTRTKUG %GTVKĹż ECVKQP RTQITCO )GV [QWT HQQV KP VJG FQQT 2QUKVKQP [QWTUGNH HQT %QWPV[ EQPVTCEVU GUVCDNKUJGF GZENWUKXGN[ HQT EGTVKĹż GF UOCNN DWUKPGUUGU CPF UGK\G VJG QRRQTVWPKV[ VQ RCTVPGT YKVJ DKI Ĺż TOU CU C UWDEQPVTCEVQT Don’t delay. Register today.

Visit the Internal Services Department website at http://www.miamidade.gov/smallbusiness/ enterprise-programs.asp or call 305-375-3111.

Curating tomorrow’s

VISIONARIES through,LEADERSHIP CHARACTER, and SERVICE. @FLMemorialUniv fmuniv.edu

POLITICS

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

By: Christopher Norwood

BB15

The Educa�on of Black Power and its Play Book

Christopher Norwood Spokesman for the Democra�c Black Caucus of Florida Principal of Norwood Consul�ng The era of the 1st African-American Presidency is coming to a close. Barack and Michelle Obama will soon return to Chicago.

They've represented the best values of African-Americans for the world to see.

There are many lessons to be learned from the Obama era of American Governance.

By: Zach Rinkins

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD

When he was elected there was an excitement in the African American community for the possibili�es on the horizon. Expecta�ons were high but o�en �mes unrealis�c. Many Black folk voted for the first �me in 2008, and had very li�le understanding of how government works at that �me. In this process, people have come to learn that elec�ng Black Elected Officials to high office does not alone solve our community's problems and more importantly the expecta�on is apart of the problem.

Barack Obama's Presidency was great, but it does not stop the gun violence plaguing his hometown Chicago. Chicago has had 500 homicides before the end of the summer (and s�ll coun�ng), the city had 480 homicides total last year. The Commander in Chief of the most powerful na�on in the world cannot solve this epidemic in the community he loves. This is not an insult or an a�ack on the successes of the Obama Administra�on because there are many, it's more of a cri�que of ourselves and Black thought in par�cular that would have us believe in a false narra�ve.

In 1970, there were 1500 Black Elected

Officials in the United States, today there are 11,000. Surely an accomplishment, but are our communi�es safer, more educated and compe�ng in the global economy because of it? Mississippi has more Black Elected Officials than any other state in the union today. The first African American U.S. Senator was Hiram Revels from Mississippi, elected in 1870. Senator Blanche Bruce from Mississippi was the second African-American Senator in America, elected in 1874 and presided over the U.S. Senate in 1879.

Today, Mississippi has well over 1000 Black Elected officials, leading the na�on in this regard. Has the African American community catapulted to new heights in Mississippi because of 'Black Power'? The answer is a resounding no. Mississippi is the poorest American State, ranking first in the number of people living below the poverty line, has the lowest median household income and ranks last in educa�on. Further, Mississippi is the leader in teen pregnancies and gun deaths in the U.S. We can localize this as well. In Miami-Dade, both the County & City Commission are Chaired by outstanding African-American poli�cians. Has Miami

Dade's Black community catapulted to new heights because of it? The answer is no. We suffer from misplaced expecta�ons on Black leadership, and this is apart of our crisis. The hard truth is that there are no short cuts for Civic Engagement and Community Organiza�on. Simply elected AfricanAmericans to office is not a poli�cal strategy for empowerment. African-American Poli�cal Power is achieved through community based Agenda se�ng and Policy making, that speaks directly to Black Crisis.

Our community suffers because we have very li�le in the Playbook, not because we don't have Players. Barack Obama is a Player, Jean Mones�me is a Player, Keon Hardemon is a Player, Dwight Bullard is a Player. Perry Thurston is a Player, Brian Johnson is Player, Oliver Gilbert, Shevin Jones, Oscar and more....The Community hasn't given them a Playbook, an Agenda to advocate with...we got the players.

“Barack Obama's Presidency was great, but it does not stop the gun violence plaguing his hometown Chicago.”

D.A. Dorsey Technical College Helps Adults Secure Skills

D.A. Dorsey Technical College (DTC) has been helping adults secure marketable skills, living wages, and gainful employment since 1970. Despite roughly 8-out-of-10 students successfully gradua�ng and earning higher wages, this well of opportunity remains largely untapped.

“We currently have 268 students,” says school principal Angela Thomas-DuPree, Ed.D. “We can, however, serve more than 2000.”

Technical skills help close income gap Nestled in Liberty City, DTC serves some of the city’s lowest income-producing and highest unemployed communi�es. In the city of Miami, the U.S. Labor Bureau notes a 5.1-percent unemployment rate and $30,858 median yearly income, per U.S.

Census. Compara�vely, the city’s largely Black communi�es experience nearly 10-percent unemployment and $22,063 median income. Dorsey aims to help reverse that trend. Its successful graduates contend for jobs that pay on average $28,017, minimum.

“We offer immediate training for immediate employment,” Thomas-DuPree explains. “Students can complete many of our programs in just one year.”

Voc-Tech jobs are in high demand As older employees re�re, there are more trade-oriented jobs than workers.

Labor Bureau data shows voca�onaltechnical jobs are expected to grow by 29-percent over that next decade versus 11-percent projected growth for all other professions. One industry insider says businesses are responding to the worker shortage by offering current workers increased wages and over�me.

“Many people may not be aware of the lucra�ve trade opportuni�es available to them,” Thomas-DuPree discloses. "In some cases, technicians make more money than people who go the tradi�onal college route.”

Dorsey accepts students age 16 and

older and operates in day and night sec�ons.

It also offers remedial and high school diploma tracks. Dorsey graduates earn state-recognized creden�als that are generally cheaper (average $3,415 total cost,) than those of their local private counterparts (average more than $10,000.)

"We are cheaper than most colleges. Our programs cost about $2.56 per clock hour,” she informs. “Addi�onally, all but two of our programs are Pell Grant eligible.”

Pell grants are need-based, federal aid funds for educa�on expenses. In those cases, Dupree-Thomas says the school only takes tui�on and books and refunds the difference directly to students.

DTC offers six cer�fica�on programs: 1) Automo�ve Service Technology (1800 hours); 2) Medical Assis�ng (1300 hours); 3) Medical Coding and Billing (1100 hours); 4) Pharmacy Technician (1050 hours); 5) Computer System and Informa�on Technician (900 hours); and 6) Pa�ent Care Technician (600 hours).

“We have exit points in all of our programs,” she con�nues. “Students can take a program to a certain length, earn a cer�ficate of comple�on, and get a job in that area. For instance, if they enroll in

Automo�ve Service Technology program and decide to exit a�er comple�ng the Automo�ve Brake System Technician sec�on. They can earn money and come back and complete the rest of the program if they desire.”

Thomas-DuPree says educa�on helped her rise from humble beginnings as a first-genera�on college graduate from rural Louisiana into an educa�onal leader. She is commi�ed to helping students realize their own success.

“I love what I do because I get to give students a diploma that will change their lives,” she beams. “Some of our students never graduated from anywhere. That’s why we have three gradua�ons with all the pomp and circumstance.”

For more information, log on to www.DADorsey.net.

PROGRAM

AVERAGE SALARY

PROGRAM

AVERAGE SALARY

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNOLOGY

$37,850 per year

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

$30,410 per year

MEDICAL ASSISTING

$30,590 per year

MEDICAL CODING/BILLING

$18.20 per hour

$14.62 per hour $36,840 per year

$14.71 per hour

COMPUTERS SYSTEM INFORMATION TECHNICIAN

$37,110 per year $17.84 per hour

PATIENT CARE TECHNICIAN

$25,710 per year

$17.71 per hour

$12.36 per hour

16BB

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Honesty & Integrity

THROUGH BOLD LEADERSHIP MAYOR GIMENEZ HAS TAKEN THE NECESSARY STEPS TO: Enhance and maintain trust between our community and police department by implementing a system of 1,000 police body cameras. Making the Miami-Dade Police Department one of the first in the nation and the largest police department in the southeast using body cameras.

Make our community safer by introducing a mentoring program to combat crime across the county reaching out to at-risk youth. The police officers selected for the Youth and Community Safety Initiative are responsible for mentoring at-risk youth with the goal of giving them better alternatives and steering them away from crime and violence and helping their families with counseling, job placement and substance abuse treatment.

Create employment opportunities by introducing Employ Miami-Dade, an initiative to recruit, train and place residents from neighborhoods with high unemployment, resulting in over 420 applicants getting jobs.

Always Putting Miami-Dade Residents First

Paid electioneering communication paid for by Miami-Dade Residents First, 2121 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 1100, Coral Gables, Florida 33134